Freetown, Thursday, August 7, 2025 —
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has outlined an ambitious and transformative vision for Sierra Leone, as he officially opened the Third Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic.
Addressing lawmakers at the Parliament Chambers in Tower Hill, the President presented a comprehensive review of national progress and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to inclusive development, stability, and prosperity.
Speaking to a packed chamber, President Bio commended Parliamentarians for their bipartisan cooperation over the past year, describing the legislature as “the beating heart of our democracy.”
He urged lawmakers to continue fostering unity, warning against division and stagnation.
The President’s address centered on achievements under the Government’s “Big Five Game Changers”: Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment Scheme, Technology and Infrastructure Development, and Public Sector Reform.
Boosting Food Security
Under the Feed Salone program, rice production rose by 8% in 2024, leading to a 13% drop in imports and saving over US$15 million. Prices fell by 20%, benefiting consumers nationwide. The President also highlighted the commissioning of three new rice mills, an increase in local sourcing by the World Food Programme, and the country’s first vegetable oil exports.
Investing in People
In education, over 1,500 classrooms have been built and 20,000 teachers trained. More girls are completing school, and higher education is being expanded with new universities and digital infrastructure. Health gains include a 70% drop in maternal and newborn deaths, improved district health facilities, and enhanced immunization coverage. Gender equality reforms such as the GEWE Act and Child Rights Bill were also noted.
Creating Jobs for Youth
The Youth Employment Scheme is already generating thousands of jobs across sectors, supported by World Bank funding for 8,000 young entrepreneurs. Training in digital skills and trades is also ongoing, with a strong focus on empowering young women.
Advancing Infrastructure and Digital Innovation
President Bio announced over $100 million invested in digital infrastructure, fibre-optic expansion across 14 districts, and new initiatives to digitize public services. In energy, Sierra Leone has signed a $480 million MCC Compact and is part of the $2.4 billion Mission 300 Energy Compact to boost electricity access and renewable energy. Road upgrades span 418 km, with 17 bridges completed and public transport improvements underway.
Reforming the Public Sector
The President highlighted strides in governance, with improved transparency, anti-corruption successes, and the rollout of digital financial management systems. Sierra Leone is now among the top 10 most improved on the Mo Ibrahim Governance Index and ranks 7th in Africa for anti-corruption efforts.
Economic Growth and Outlook
President Bio reported a 4% economic growth rate for 2024, a sharp fall in inflation from 54.5% to 9.38%, and domestic revenue rising to NLe 14.6 billion. The IMF’s recent approval of a $243 million credit facility reflects renewed international confidence in the economy.
A Call for Unity
Closing his speech, the President called for national unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility. “Let us serve above self, put country before party, and build a future worthy of every Sierra Leonean,” he urged.
With a focus on action, he concluded: “The transformation is real. The journey is challenging. But together, we are building a Sierra Leone that is stronger, fairer, and full of opportunity.”
